Saint Ignatius of Laconi

Biography

Saint Ignatius of Laconi, also known as Ignacy z Làconi, Ignazio da Laconi, and Vincenzo Peis, was born on December 17, 1701, in Laconi, Nuoro, Italy, to a poor farming family. He was one of seven children, and his early life was marked by the hardships and struggles of rural poverty. At the age of 17, Ignatius fell seriously ill and made a promise to become a Franciscan if he was spared. Miraculously, he recovered, but his father convinced him to delay entering religious life. However, when Ignatius was 20 years old, he experienced another life-threatening incident. While riding a horse, he lost control, but suddenly the horse came to a halt and calmly trotted on. Ignatius believed that God had intervened to save his life once again, and he made the decision to pursue his religious vocation without delay. In 1722, Ignatius joined the Capuchin monastery of Saint Benedict at Buoncammino, Italy, as a lay brother. He took his vows and dedicated himself to a life of service and devotion. For the next fifteen years, he worked in the monastery's weaving shed. However, in 1740, he was assigned to a team that would go from house to house, seeking donations and food for the friars. People quickly realized that they received more than just material goods when Brother Ignatius visited their homes. He offered solace to the sick and lonely, brought joy to the children of the streets, and mediated conflicts between enemies. He had a remarkable ability to convert sinners and dispense wise advice to those in trouble. It was noticed that Ignatius deliberately skipped the house of a wealthy money-lender during his rounds. This man never forgave any debts and felt slighted by Ignatius passing by without requesting anything from him. The money-lender complained to Ignatius' superior, who was unaware of the situation. As a result, Ignatius was sent to the money-lender's house. To everyone's surprise, Ignatius returned with a large sack of food. However, when the sack was opened, blood spilled out. Ignatius gently explained that it was the blood of the poor, which was why he never asked for anything at that particular house. Saint Ignatius of Laconi lived a life marked by humility, selflessness, and devotion to the poor and needy. He died on May 11, 1781, in Cagliari, Italy, of natural causes. He was buried in the Capuchin friary in Cagliari. Pope Pius IX recognized his heroic virtues and venerated him on May 26, 1869. Later, on June 16, 1940, Pope Pius XII beatified him, and on October 21, 1951, Pope Pius XII canonized him as a saint. Saint Ignatius of Laconi's feast day is celebrated on May 11. Although he doesn't have an established patronage, his life and example continue to inspire and guide people in their pursuit of faith, charity, and humility.